Riding the Red Rabbit for 'Dump the Pump'

GAINESVILLE - Thursday is the third annual "Dump the Pump" day, and the city of Gainesville is offering free rides on Hall Area Transit.

Community Service Center Director Phillippa Lewis Moss says using public transportation is the quickest way to beat high gas prices.

She added by participating in "Dump the Pump" they hope people who have not ridden the Red Rabbit will give it a try.

"Public transportation also has an important role to play in helping to reduce greenhouse gases," Moss said. "If you leave your car behind to take public transportation, you will be helping to combat climate change."

According to a new study prepared by ICF International and titled Broadening the Connection between Public Transportation and Energy Conservation, public transportation reduces our nation's carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons annually - equivalent to the electricity used by 4.9 million households.

Moss says some families that leave cars behind and use public transit can save nearly $7,000 a year.